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Mt. Pleasant/Valhalla, NY AYSO (Region 221)

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About

The AYSO training and manuals are a coaches primary source for information.

Coaches are encouraged to supplement their education by considering the following resources that have been recommended by our regional Coach Administrators. All Coaches are expected to deliver the AYSO program as outlined in the manual.

10 tips for coaching the little ones

From Mike Woitalla, the executive editor of Soccer America
The most recent time I heard the question: "I got recruited to coach my kid's soccer team. Any Advice?", it came from the parent of a 6 year old. It prompted me to put the answer in writing, based on some of the best insight I've gotten from coaches and players I've interviewed and observed over the years

If all you do is set up goals and have them play as much soccer as possible during that hour of practice -- you’re doing a good job.
Familiarize yourself with the various age-appropriate games/exercises to facilitate individual skills -- but don’t use ones that bore the kids. And if it takes more than a minute for 6-year-olds to comprehend the activity -- it’s the wrong one. (In other words, plan your practice but be ready to improvise.)
No lines, no laps, no lectures.
Enjoy yourself! If for some reason you’re grumpy, act like you’re enjoying yourself. Kids pick up on body language and you’ll get the best out of them if they sense you like being their coach.
Greet each player when they arrive in a way that lets them know you’re happy to see them.
Always end practice on an upbeat, happy note. (Even if they drove you absolutely crazy).
See the game through the children's eyes. This will remind you that your main objective is helping them discover the joys of soccer. And not to expect a 6-year-old to play like a 16-year-old!
Do not yell instructions at them! Do not coach from the sidelines during games! This interferes severely in their learning process. It also makes you look rather silly -- an adult screaming at 6-year-olds while they’re playing.
Sit down during games, instead of prowling the sidelines, which only creates tension that unnerves your players.
Always have a first-aid kit (including ice-packs) with you.